HC Deb 19 January 1965 vol 705 c18W
Mr. Brian Harrison

asked the Postmaster-General what improvements he intends to make to toll and trunk services from the Witham exchange area; and when these improvements will be completed.

Mr. Benn

Operator-controlled calls from subscribers served by Witham exchange are handled at Chelmsford. The service has been impaired by plant shortages but has improved in recent months as a result of relief measures. I look forward to further improvements.

Additional circuits have been provided between Witham and Chelmsford and four more should be brought into service by the end of May. The switchboard at Chelmsford has been extended and additional circuits to London were provided during November and December. Additional circuits to Cambridge should come into use this month and these will give further relief.